Delaying: meaning, definitions and examples

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delaying

 

[ dɪˈleɪɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

postponing action

Delaying refers to the act of taking longer than necessary to do something or to postpone an action or event. It often implies a decision to defer or put something off to a later time, which can be due to various reasons, including indecision or external factors.

Synonyms

deferring, postponing, procrastinating, suspending

Examples of usage

  • The meeting was delayed due to technical issues.
  • We are delaying our vacation until next month.
  • He is delaying his response to the offer.
  • The project has been delayed by unforeseen circumstances.

Translations

Translations of the word "delaying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adiamento

🇮🇳 देरी करना

🇩🇪 Verzögerung

🇮🇩 penundaan

🇺🇦 затримка

🇵🇱 opóźnienie

🇯🇵 遅延

🇫🇷 retardement

🇪🇸 retraso

🇹🇷 gecikme

🇰🇷 지연

🇸🇦 تأخير

🇨🇿 zpoždění

🇸🇰 oneskorenie

🇨🇳 延迟

🇸🇮 zamuda

🇮🇸 seinkun

🇰🇿 кешіктіру

🇬🇪 დაგვიანება

🇦🇿 gözləmə

🇲🇽 retraso

Word origin

The term 'delay' originates from the Middle English word 'delai', which itself comes from the Old French 'delaier', meaning 'to defer' or 'to postpone'. This word is derived from the Latin phrase 'de-latare', where 'de-' means 'away' and 'latare' means 'to bring'. Over time, the meaning has evolved to encompass a broader range of situations involving postponement or hindrance. The act of delaying can be seen in various contexts like meetings, travel, or decisions, which reflects the complexities of time management in social and professional environments. The use of 'delaying' can often carry a negative connotation, implying a lack of decisiveness or efficiency.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,884, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.